Looking for a dish that warms the soul and tantalizes the taste buds? Look no further than this Hearty Beef and Bean Chili! Perfect for chilly evenings or gatherings with friends, this robust chili combines tender ground beef with a medley of beans and spices, creating a flavor explosion that will leave everyone asking for seconds. With just a little prep and a simmering pot, you can create a comforting meal that not only satisfies hunger but also brings everyone together. Dive into this delicious recipe and discover the secret to the ultimate chili experience!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 1 hrs 30 mins
Total Time: 1 hrs 45 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 2 lbs ground beef
- 1 can kidney beans, drained
- 1 can black beans, drained
- 1 can diced tomatoes
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp chili powder
- 1 tsp cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Heat a large heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add ground beef and break it up with a wooden spoon, cooking until fully browned and no pink remains, approximately 8-10 minutes.
- Drain excess fat from the beef, leaving about 1 tablespoon in the pot. Add chopped onions and minced garlic, sautéing until the onions become translucent and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.
- Sprinkle chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper over the beef and onion mixture. Stir thoroughly to coat the meat and distribute the spices evenly.
- Pour in the diced tomatoes, stirring to combine. Add the drained kidney beans and black beans, mixing well.
- Reduce heat to low, cover the pot, and let the chili simmer slowly. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
- Allow the chili to cook for approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes, which will help develop deep, rich flavors and tenderize the meat.
- Taste and adjust seasoning as needed, adding more salt, pepper, or chili powder to suit your preference.
- Serve hot in bowls, optionally topped with shredded cheese, sour cream, or chopped fresh cilantro.
Tips
- Choose Quality Beef: For the best flavor, opt for ground beef with a higher fat content, like 80/
- This will give your chili a richer taste and better texture.
- Sauté the Aromatics: Don’t skip the step of sautéing the onions and garlic! This process builds a flavorful base for your chili, enhancing the overall taste.
- Customize Your Spice Level: Adjust the amount of chili powder according to your heat preference. If you like it spicy, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or diced jalapeños.
- Let it Simmer: The longer you let your chili simmer, the better the flavors meld together. If you have time, let it cook for an extra 30 minutes to an hour for a deeper flavor.
- Garnish Creatively: Elevate your chili by topping it with shredded cheese, a dollop of sour cream, or fresh cilantro. These toppings add freshness and a creamy contrast to the hearty dish.
- Make it Ahead: Chili tastes even better the next day! Consider making a big batch in advance and storing it in the fridge or freezer for easy meals throughout the week.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 420kcal
Carbohydrates: 25g
Protein: 35g
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Cholesterol: 95mg
